Italy Primer

Today, I'm writing about one of my favorite destinations, Italy.  I've had some requests for Italy information, so I might go into a series, assuming I don't get too bogged down with other work.  Let's talk basics.


Italy

• Currency is the Euro.  It's fluctuating a lot these days, but right now, it's simpler to say it's nearly on par with the dollar.  
• Electricity is the same as all of Europe.  The current is 220-230v.  You will need an adaptor, but nearly gone are the days that you need a transformer to convert the voltage.  Consult the tiny print on your chargers to determine if they will accept the voltage in Italy.  The adaptor should have two round prongs to work in Italy.  You can find these on Amazon.

• The weather is often very hot in the south, even late in the fall or early in the spring.  It usually rains in Tuscany in November.
• The best time to go is shoulder season - This is early spring or late fall.  Expect lower prices and smaller crowds.

Safety

• Wear your money belt on days that you MUST carry your passport.  Otherwise, lock it in the safe in your hotel room.  
• Keep your purse and/or wallet covered.  You won't be a target if you don't make yourself one.  You are not likely to get injured, but your wallet could become lighter if you are unaware in a crowded place such as the Trevi fountain or the Spanish Steps.
• The emergency number in Italy is 112.

Customs

• Conservative dress is expected in most churches, and required in some.  For men, this means long pants (trousers) and for ladies, at least Capri pants that go below the knee or dresses.  If I'm in Italy in the middle of the summer, I will generally carry some light jogging pants in my backpack to slip on over my shorts for church visits.
• If you are being properly introduced to a lady for the first time, expect a kiss on both cheeks.  Generally, Italians are wise to the less warm greetings by Anglo countries, and will offer a handshake.  However, that first kiss can be a little shocking if you aren't aware!
• Meals are ordered differently.  Caesar salad is not from Italy.  You also won't find butter served with bread at a traditional Italian restaurant.  If you receive it, it's because they know you're a tourist.  You can assume that you will not be served ice in your beverage.
• You can expect the following courses: Antipasta (before pasta), Primo (Pasta), Secondo (often fish or meat), Formaggi e frutta (cheese and fruit), Dolce (sweets), Caffè (coffee - NOT served with dessert, but after)
• Always ask permission before taking photos of people.  It's polite.

Coffee

You may think that your double Americano with one shot of hazelnut, served 184.375 degrees F with an ounce of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon may be the most complex Italian drink ever, but, it's not.  Italians invented our coffee culture, but it's not the same.  Let's have a look.

• Caffè - Literally, "coffee." This will be an espresso.  You will usually receive a full packet of sugar, and will drink this following a meal or standing up at the coffee shop.
• Cappuccino - Espresso with steamed milk and foamed milk.  This is served only in the morning.  However, as a tourist, you can probably order it whenever you wish.
• Caffè latte - Espresso with mostly steamed milk.  (less foam than a cappuccino)
• Latte Macchiato - Steamed milk with some espresso (literally - "freckled")
• Latte = milk
• Caffè Americano - Espresso with hot water added to fill up the cup.  This is the Italiano effort to provide Americans with the same coffee that you drink at home.  It clearly won't be the same, but it's a decent substitute if cappuccino isn't your cup of tea... wait a minute...

Language

Learn the basic phrases to be polite.  It is always polite to greet shopkeepers.

• Buongiorno - Good morning/day
• Buona Sera - Good afternoon/evening
• Grazie - Thanks!
• Per favore - Please
• Ciao - Goodbye

Gelato

Eat it often.  Buon viaggio!